A symbolic gesture? Surely. According to US website Road and Track, American sales of the paddle-shifted semi-automatic model have outstripped manual sales nine to one.

Traditional manual enthusiasts may wish to raid the piggy bank for a deposit on the final Gallardo, as it will almost certainly be the last traditional manual Lamborghini.

“We are in an era when customers demand technology and products that adapt to them,” said Michael Lock from Lamborghini America.

Speaking about the final version of the Gallardo, Mr Lock told the website: “It will be the least-gilded, back-to-basics stripped version.”

“It is the oldest supercar still standing, like a boxing champion,” said Mr Lock. “It is defying the normal supercar product cycle. Can you imagine if Ferrari were still trying to sell the 360 Modena?”